Top 15 Unforgettable Day Trips from Anchorage You Must Explore

Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and serves as the gateway to the state’s expansive and diverse wilderness areas. Renowned for its commitment to preserving native culture, Anchorage is distinct from any other city in the United States. The residents, accustomed to some of the harshest weather in North America, demonstrate resilience while being exceptionally welcoming and friendly.

While navigating the city of Anchorage, the Alaska Native Heritage Center and the Anchorage Museums are essential visits. Although Anchorage offers a variety of attractions itself, it also serves as an excellent base for day trips throughout the state.

Having lived in Anchorage and explored the most visited destinations in Alaska, I present my list of the best day trips from Anchorage.

1. Turnagain Arm

Turnagain Arm is a favored destination for day trippers from Anchorage. This waterway, which flows into the Gulf of Alaska, derives its name from the unfortunate experience of British explorer James Cook. Cook had to ‘turn again’ when the rumor of a Northwest Passage proved to be merely a myth.

Visitors can hike along the scenic byway and enjoy stunning views of the water below and the rugged peaks beyond. Notable trails include Bird and Rainbow, while McHugh Creek offers another scenic adventure. Both hikers and mountain bikers are welcome here.

2. Chugach National Forest

The Chugach National Forest represents one of the most accessible day excursions from Anchorage, both in terms of distance and affordability. Remarkably, it is the second largest national forest in the United States, just slightly smaller than Tongass in the state.

Visitors can experience a wealth of natural beauty and a multitude of activities, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and ATV riding. The most easily accessible hiking trails are located just a 20-minute drive from downtown Anchorage. For those wishing to explore further, I recommend traveling to the northern portion of Chugach where you can kayak on a glacial lake—a must-see experience.

3. Katmai National Park

Many of Alaska’s premier national parks can be accessed from Anchorage via seaplane, particularly true for Katmai National Park. This park boasts breathtaking vistas featuring glaciers, volcanoes, lakes, and dense forests. If one seeks to observe Alaska’s grizzly bears, Katmai National Park is the ideal destination.

The best bear sightings typically occur in July and September, although they may be spotted as early as May. The grizzlies migrate to Brooks River to catch salmon as they swim upstream, resulting in spectacular viewing opportunities.

4. Portage Valley

Portage Valley features one of Alaska’s most notable and picturesque glaciers, aptly named Portage Glacier. Standing proudly at ten stories high and spanning the same width, the glacier can be found at the far end of Portage Lake. For optimal access to Portage Glacier, consider hiking along the Byron Glacier Trail, which leads directly to the base of this impressive icy structure.

This trail is less than a mile long and is accessible for even the most inexperienced hikers. Combining a trip around Portage Valley with a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center adds an educational component to your day.

5. Alaska Railroad

The Alaska Railroad meanders through the breathtaking North American landscape with a sense of grace, providing travelers with a relaxing and enchanting experience where they can appreciate the stunning beauty that Alaska has to offer.

They provide day-long railroad excursions that travel south from Anchorage toward Seward. Alternatively, one can journey further south to Whittier, exploring the Kenai Mountains and Spencer Glacier. For those eager to experience the frozen north of Alaska, I suggest boarding the Denali Star, which transports passengers to Talkeetna, Denali National Park, and ultimately to Fairbanks.

6. Eagle River Nature Center

Outdoor enthusiasts including hikers and bikers will appreciate the Eagle River Nature Center. Nestled in the heart of Chugach State Park, which borders Chugach National Park, the Eagle River Nature Center is a non-profit organization that aims to facilitate greater interaction with nature.

The center emphasizes reconnecting the community with nature through environmental protection, outdoor activities, and interactive educational opportunities. Open year-round, it offers over 10 miles of hiking trails that vary in difficulty.

Located merely a 40-minute drive from downtown Anchorage, this destination is particularly well-suited for a quick day trip.

7. Rendezvous Peak

If you seek an active and exhilarating adventure, then consider exploring Rendezvous Peak. As one of the first notable summits in the Chugach Mountains, Rendezvous Peak offers an excellent introduction to mountainous hikes in Alaska.

The trek to the summit of Rendezvous Peak involves a 4-mile round trip to reach the elevation of 1,500 feet. The trail features a steady incline that becomes steeper as one approaches the peak. From the summit, explorers are rewarded with spectacular views of Cook Inlet and the Anchorage Bowl.

During the summer months, it is particularly enjoyable to hike while snacking on wild berries that grow along the valley’s edges.

8. Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park is arguably Alaska’s most iconic landscape and a source of inspiration for countless visitors to the state. A full day cruise through the fjords undoubtedly represents the best method to experience and connect with this breathtaking environment. One embarks on a small cruise liner in Seward and ventures onto the calm waters.

Depending on the time of year, guests may observe nature’s remarkable wonders in terms of flora, fauna, and geography. Orca, Humpback, and Minke Whales frequently inhabit these waters, providing captivating displays. Multi-day tours are available; however, during my last visit, I opted for a scenic drive lasting approximately 2.5 hours.

9. Alyeska Resort Aerial Tram

The Alyeska Resort Aerial Tram provides one of the most remarkable experiences in Alaska, particularly suitable for those who prefer a more leisurely way to explore. There is no necessity to hike or ski unless desired; simply visit the Alyeska Resort and experience the aerial tramway ascending to the summit of Mt. Alyeska.

Take in the panoramic views of the majestic mountains and lush valleys below from the tram. Guests may capture stunning photographs at the top and then descend, dine at the Alyeska Resort’s fine dining restaurant, or hit the ski slopes.

10. Crow Creek Goldmine

Founded in 1896, the Crow Creek Goldmine is a world-renowned mining site that utilized pioneering hydraulic techniques to extract valuable metals from the earth. Still operational today, a visit to Crow Creek Goldmine offers insights into the mining process, the history of the establishment, and the impressive products it has yielded.

During your visit, you can pan for gold and learn from experts how to sift and sluice for this precious metal. Additionally, you can tour the goldmine village and appreciate the well-preserved miners’ cottages.

11. Roundhouse Museum

The Roundhouse Museum proudly stands as the only mountaintop museum in Alaska.

Located at an elevation of 2,280 feet, the Roundhouse Museum features an octagonal design and was constructed in 1960. It houses numerous exhibits and artifacts, including the recent addition of ‘The James Girdwood Collection: Photos from 1896-1904’. Renovated in 2003, the museum benefited from a $1.9 million investment from the Kenai Mountains-Turnagain Arm National Heritage Corridor Communities Association.

Visitors can easily combine a trip to the Roundhouse Museum with a ski day at the Alyeska Resort and, of course, a ride on the Alyeska Resort Aerial Tram.

12. Prince William Sound

Prince William Sound is arguably one of the most stunning marine inlets globally. This beautiful environment is best appreciated on a mini cruise liner, allowing guests to witness icebergs calving into the serene waters below. As the cruise progresses, visitors will navigate through floating ice masses in pursuit of captivating vistas.

Commonly sighted wildlife includes otters, seals, and sea lions, making for an exciting experience. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the migratory sea birds that inhabit the region throughout the year. Notable highlights of a day cruise include Barry Glacier and Blackstone Bay.

13. Matanuska Valley Glaciers

The Matanuska Valley Glaciers present countless opportunities for exploration. Whether traversing the ice with crampons and hiking poles, navigating with a kayak, or embarking on a bush plane, visitors are sure to be astounded by the experience.

Just off the Glenn Highway lies a gentle one-mile hiking path leading through a sprawling aspen forest toward the Matanuska Valley Glaciers, which should not be missed. Even during the summer, these glaciers are snow-capped, allowing opportunities for playful snowball fights.

14. 6-Mile Creek Rafting

Alaska is renowned for its white-water rafting, with 6-Mile Creek being one of the most prominent locations for this thrilling activity. For those eager to embrace the invigorating waters surrounding Anchorage, Lower 6-Mile Creek is a prime choice. Featuring Class IV and V rapids, this adventure is intended for the more daring adventurers.

Prepare for an adrenaline-filled experience as you navigate narrow waterways and steep drops. Numerous reputable rafting companies offer full-day and half-day trips throughout the year. For instance, novalaska.com provides these exhilarating experiences. I recommend dressing in layers during the winter months.

15. Dog Sledding

Dog sledding has been an integral aspect of Alaskan culture for centuries. Regardless of the season, these trained dogs are always prepared for adventure. More than just pets, these teams comprise dedicated athletes in their prime.

Depending on the chosen tour company, guests can traverse snowy mountain passes, riverbanks, or meadows. Additionally, participants can learn mushing techniques at the Alaska Mushing School. Although mastering the craft involves years of practice and trust-building with the dogs, participants can grasp the basics and delve deeper into this fascinating tradition during a one-day experience.